Zero-Proof Cocktails by Liz Scott

One of the significant trends of the past few years have been "fancy" non-alcoholic mixed drinks, those that go beyond a plain ginger ale and the Shirley Temple. The new book by Liz Scott, Zero-Proof Cocktails, is a highlight in this popular movement and is filled with Scott's original mocktails that are innovative, tasty and modern options for the non-drinker. It is books such as this that make fantastic additions to the well-rounded entertaining library because it opens the possibilities of a host to meet the taste and needs of all guests.

In Zero-Proof Cocktails Liz Scott has combined her personal and professional experience for a delightful little book filled with great ideas. Scott, a caterer and chef, is herself a non-drinker and the author of The Sober Kitchen and Sober Celebrations. To have an authority with that background write a non-alcoholic cocktail book is a refreshing prospect. She has taken the term "bar chef" and transformed it into a more innocent term while keeping a sophisticated style.

The book is primarily filled with recipes but those are preceded by tips for navigating mocktails. Sure, there are the standard excerpts of bartending techniques which are necessary, yet the addition of advice regarding "alcohol-free" wines and beers, and even bitters, are a nice touch and sound knowledge anyone can find useful.

The 100 recipes span the categories of standard cocktails: Elixirs and Aperitifs, Martinis and Party Cocktails, Mealtime Libations, Dessert Drinks, and Nightcaps. In each chapter you will find some fascinating mixed drinks both simple and complex. With a quick flip through the pages one can see common ingredients, which Scott uses to replace liquor. There are many instances of nectars, syrups, herbs and spices, fresh juices and even more use of sodas. Occasionally, a bottle mix (ie. sour apple martini) is used, when the same effect could be had via a fresh alternative.

The Zero-Proof Cocktails include the very simple like a Blueberry Cobbler (blueberry juice, lemon-lime seltzer) to the slightly more intense such as the Aussie Soave (white cranberry and grape juices, lemon, kiwi, lemon seltzer). Yet, you won't see a drink with any overly exotic ingredients that can't be found at the natural food store. As a special touch, Scott includes recipes for specialty homemade mixers like a "Copycat Bourbon," which is the focus of the Big Apple Tease.